Charged-Particle THz Wave Generator for Tunable Wideband Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current terahertz electromagnetic wave generators are limited in generating wideband waves and controlling wavelengths, which restricts their application in fields like medical imaging, and they often consume excessive power.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic wave generator design featuring a chamber with chargeable particles between electrodes, where the particles oscillate to generate electromagnetic waves, allowing for control of wavelengths and reduced power consumption through a core-shell structure and vacuum/noble gas environment, and an optical shutter using similar principles for high-speed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional terahertz generators (solid state laser with non-linear crystals or electromagnetic induction type) are used, then terahertz waves can be generated, but the usable band of output terahertz waves is too narrow and wavelengths cannot be controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic control mechanism where the oscillation frequency of charged particles is controlled by adjusting the voltage applied between electrodes. This allows the wavelength of generated terahertz waves to be dynamically tuned across a wide frequency range (0.1-10 THz), resolving the contradiction between wavelength adaptability and generation reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters including voltage amplitude, charged particle mass, and inter-electrode distance to control the oscillation frequency and thus the wavelength of generated terahertz waves. This parameter control enables wideband wavelength adjustment while maintaining reliable wave generation through optimized parameter selection.
2Power
If conventional terahertz generators are used, then terahertz waves can be generated, but excessive power is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic oscillation of charged particles between electrodes to generate terahertz waves. By applying periodic voltage and utilizing the natural oscillation of charged particles, the system achieves efficient energy conversion with reduced power consumption compared to continuous wave generation methods, while maintaining reliable terahertz wave production.
Solution Approach 2:
The charged particles in the patent serve dual functions: they are both the oscillating elements that generate electromagnetic waves and the charge carriers that respond to applied voltage. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for separate high-power amplification stages, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining generation reliability through direct voltage-controlled oscillation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a chargeable particle oscillates between electrodes to generate electromagnetic waves, then wideband terahertz waves with controllable wavelengths can be produced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the terahertz generation function into discrete controllable elements: multiple electrodes with independent voltage control, selectable charged particles with different masses and charges, and adjustable inter-electrode distances. This segmentation allows wavelength tuning through simple parameter changes rather than complex mechanical adjustments, reducing operational complexity despite increased component count.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal terahertz generation platform where the same basic structure (electrodes and charged particles) can generate waves across the entire 0.1-10 THz range by simply changing voltage parameters or particle selection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized generators for different wavelength bands, reducing overall system complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the generation of wideband electromagnetic waves, including terahertz frequencies, with adjustable wavelengths and reduced power consumption, and facilitates high-speed optical shutter operations, enhancing applicability in various technical fields.
Implementation Method 1
the chargeable particle moves between the first electrode and the second electrode to generate at least one electromagnetic wave when at least one voltage is applied to each of the first electrode and the second electrode
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnetic wave generator for outputting wideband electromagnetic waves, including terahertz (THz) band waves, and for controlling wavelengths of the output electromagnetic waves and an optical shutter are provided. The electromagnetic wave generator includes two electrodes that separately face each other, a chargeable particle disposed between the two electrodes, and a chamber disposed to surround the chargeable particle between the two electrodes. When DC voltages are applied to the two electrodes to generate an electric field between the two electrodes, the chargeable particle may be charged. Then, the chargeable particle reciprocates between the two electrodes to generate the electromagnetic waves. A wavelength of the output electromagnetic wave may be controlled by adjusting a potential difference between the two electrodes.